Four-time African champion, Anuoluwapo Opeyori, on Thursday advanced to the quarter-finals after beating an Equatorial Guinea player at the ongoing Lagos Badminton Classics at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.
The game took an unexpected turn, with the Equatorial Guinea player, Solomon Obiegue, demonstrating the determination to do his best and challenge the champion.
Knowing Obiegue’s strength, Opeyori’s initial plan was to test his stamina before ending the match with 18-21, 21- 5, 21-7 (2-1)win.
Opeyori, in an interview with the New Agency of Nigeria (NAN), said he played below his level to make it to the quarter-finals.
He said he had a good experience at the Olympics and came to share the experience with the younger generation, to build a better generation after his retirement.
Obiegue said that he was honoured to share the stage with the African champion.
He said that his ambition is to be part of the African badminton dream of winning an Olympic medal.
Opeyori advises young players to participate in competitions like this in order to accumulate points and improve their level of play. (NAN)